After completing my post-graduation and while pursuing an MPhil at JNU, New Delhi, I was selected and assigned to the joint IPS cadre of Assam and Meghalaya. After a stint in Assam, I joined the Assam Rifles as an Assistant Superintendent of Police in Shillong in 1983. I served in Meghalaya until 1988. My time in Meghalaya was not just a professional assignment, but a personal journey that I cherish to this day. This personal connection to Meghalaya is something I hope to share with you through this writing.
Nestled in the serene hillside of Northeast India, Meghalaya, known as the ‘Abode of Clouds’, is a land of great geographical diversity, featuring rolling hills, verdant valleys, roaring waterfalls, miles of grasslands, and pristine forests. It is not just recognised for being home to MAWSYNRAM, the wettest place on Earth, with an average annual rainfall of 17,800 mm. Still, it is a tapestry woven with the vibrant threads of three major tribes: the Khasi, Jaintia, and Garo, each having its distinct language and way of life. What binds them together is the deep reverence for nature. Central to this is the fascinating matrilineal inheritance of these tribes, in which family lineage and inheritance are traced through the maternal rather than the paternal line. The youngest daughter inherits the property and takes on family responsibilities. This unique cultural aspect is sure to pique your interest and make you want to learn more about Meghalaya.
With a focus on the amusing and imaginative names bestowed upon children, each name tells a story, brimming with laughter and tradition. To respect confidentiality, I am enumerating only the first names and not the surnames. These are, I Love You; Fullmoon; Mighty Sword; Skylance; Albino; Morning Born; Sunset; Firstly; Secondly; Lastborn; Wire, Fire; Sire; Jackpot; Strong Pillar; Steering; First Gear; Reverse; Merciful; Happiness; Adolf Hitler; Be careful; Champion; Successful; Goodness; Unity; Jerusalem; Commander; Speed; Holyland; Yes very good; Morning Star; Shinning Star; Frankenstein; England; Chittaranjan; Call Me; Democracy; illtracy; and so on.
Very little is known about the uniqueness of Meghalaya, but the Living Root Bridge Double Decker in Riwar is an engineering marvel, made from the living roots of the rubber fig. The MAWJYMBUIN Cave near Mawsynram has an enormous Stalagmite resembling the ‘ Shivalingam’, right above which hangs a magnificent Stalacite from which dips the milky water. Truly, an incredible sight. Nokrek National Park is home to the endangered Hoolock Gibbon and Memang Narang, one of the oldest citrus species.
The Baghmara Reserve forest in the South Garo Hills district is home to a variety of Carnivorous Pitcher Plants. The SIJU Caves, located near Williamnagar on the banks of the Simsang River, are the third-longest cave in India; they feature some of the finest river passages in the world. It opens up like a tunnel and features a constant stream of water dripping from the ceiling. Some of the famous Stalagmites and Stalactites formations can be seen here. These natural wonders are sure to inspire awe and make you want to experience them firsthand.
As you embark on this exploration, your journey to Meghalaya is an experience waiting to unfold. I genuinely believe you are going to love and enjoy, as I did, what’s in Meghalaya.
